Congratulations New Grandparents!

What it means to be a Grandparent

It all begins with love.

You love your child, who will now be facing parenthood with some different challenges than they expected. You love your family and always want the best for everyone. You also love your grandchild. This little one is first and foremost a baby, a sweet little child who needs to be held, loved and nurtured. You will soon see that you love this little child, just as you would any grandchild.

You are not alone.

There are many families that love a children with Down syndrome living right here in Nebraska. We can help you connect with other families and grandparents. By attending a family support group, you will have the chance to talk with others, learn more about Down syndrome and show support for your child (the new parent).

You are a role model. ​

Being a role model shows in the loving way you interact with your new grandchild, and in the respect and love you practice for the new parents. Your actions will help other family members and friends have a positive approach to the situation and bring more support to the family. When the family and friends are supportive, everyone’s life is elevated to a better place.

You are special in the lives of your grandchildren.

Grandparents often have more time and patience to read books, play ball, and to endlessly answer the question “why?. or have a tea party, to make up silly riddles or go to the park. That loving time you are able to give to your grandchild will help to build a bond between you like no other.​ The following tips may help you navigate the new path that lies ahead.

Learn as much as you can about Down syndrome. You can get more information from DSAA, NDSS and NDSC. Having a better understanding of the situation will help everyone in the family embrace this wonderful new child.Know that feelings are feelings.What you and the new parents may be feeling about the birth of this new child is normal. You may feel joy and sadness, fear and hope, even bewilderment and empowerment. Try to think of feelings as neither “good” or “bad,” feelings just exist.Be understanding and comforting toward the new parents. Don’t be afraid to hold your grandchild.Sometimes when a child with medical issues is born, we are afraid to touch or hold for fear of hurting them. But, studies show that the human touch is very healing, and an absolute necessity for the development of infants and children. You can be a part of the progress your grandchild makes through touch. And while you’re at it, don’t forget to give your child a hug to show your care and concern for them, as well. Remember to give some attention to your new grandchild’s brothers and sisters.New babies are always the center of attention. Sometimes when one child is attended to because of a diagnosis, or conversations in the family are focused on what is happening to the special needs child, other children can get lost in the shuffle. Call to talk just to them, and when you visit, go out of your way to spend some alone time and consider bringing a special small gift to them.Listen to your grandchild’s parents.They may need to talk, to get your advice, to just express their feelings about being a new parent. Take opportunities to ask about how things are going, how your grandchild is doing. Whatever the response may be, be supportive. Remember that this is a whole new world for you and the new parents.Ask how you can help with the new baby.If you are near enough to offer practical help, that may be very much needed. Cooking a dinner or doing a load of laundry while you babysit the other children or while the new parents take a break can be a real lifesaver. And, keep offering from time to time, new parents may feel that they have to do everything themselves at first,